In the town of La Malbaie, Canada, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will be meeting with his counterparts from the Group of 7 industrialized democracies this week. These strong American allies have been shocked by President Donald Trump’s recent actions, particularly his implementation of steel and aluminum tariffs that have sparked reactions from the European Union and Canada, potentially leading to trade conflicts. Despite this tense atmosphere, Rubio remains optimistic about the meetings, emphasizing a focus on shared topics such as Ukraine issues. The G7 agenda also includes discussions on various global issues like stability in the Americas, maritime security, and relations with China, North Korea, Iran, and Russia. Earlier in the week, Rubio and Trump’s national security adviser were in Saudi Arabia working towards a potential ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, a significant priority for the G7 members.
The conflict started with Ukraine agreeing to a 30-day ceasefire proposal, awaiting Russia’s response. Rubio anticipates cautious optimism from fellow diplomats. However, Trump’s push to involve Russian President Vladimir Putin back into the G8 raises concerns among G7 members who have supported Ukraine with military aid and economic sanctions since the 2022 invasion. Russia was expelled from the G8 in 2014 after annexing Crimea. The G7, comprising NATO allies (except Japan), has been tough on Russia. In a December 2021 meeting, they warned Russia of severe consequences for attacking Ukraine, followed by coordinated sanctions after the invasion. Concerns arise over changes in U.S. policy under Trump. Rubio aims to avoid provoking Russia amid ceasefire talks, emphasizing that existing sanctions remain while new threats could hinder progress. This casts doubt on G7’s ability to issue a joint condemnation of Russia. Britain and France work on a “coalition of the willing” for Ukraine, supported by U.S. security guarantees. Rubio and Trump officials have not backed European peacekeeping efforts. G7 unity, according to German Foreign Minister Baerbock, has prevented Putin from achieving his goals in Ukraine. She underscores the importance of strength and unity in dealing with Putin.
